‘We are DEI’: Fifth ASU staffer admits diversity practices remain despite ban in undercover video

Arizona State University (ASU) continues to implement diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices despite a federal ban, according to an undercover video released by Accuracy in Media. Kayla Elizondo-Nunez, graduate program coordinator for ASU’s School of Social Transformation, stated, 'We are DEI,' while acknowledging the school’s racial theory courses and progressive community focus. This admission follows similar statements from four other ASU faculty members, who insisted DEI remains central to education despite legislative pressure. The videos, captured by investigative group Accuracy in Media, show ASU staff openly discussing DEI initiatives despite claims of compliance with federal law. ASU previously stated it 'does not discriminate in admissions or scholarship selections,' but faculty members like recruitment specialist Veronica McDaniel and enrollment coach Megan Neumann admitted the university remains 'actively' incorporating DEI. Associate Dean Chandra Crudup acknowledged rebranding efforts while admitting core practices persist. Kansas State University (KSU) faculty also admitted to maintaining DEI-related courses, including 'Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Practice' and 'Race, Power, and Privilege,' despite state bans. Don Kurtz, head of KSU’s Social Work department, stated, 'I’m not gonna change it until somebody physically makes me.' Last year, Kansas banned DEI initiatives in state agencies, yet a 2025 survey found nearly 90 universities nationwide rebranded DEI offices rather than dismantling them entirely. Federal watchdog Protect the Public’s Trust filed a complaint against ASU, alleging continued secret DEI curriculum. The admissions from ASU and KSU faculty highlight ongoing resistance to legislative efforts to eliminate DEI programs, even as universities claim compliance with state and federal laws.